Interim Results

Burberry Group PLC 18 November 2003 Burberry Group plc Interim Results 18 November 2003. Burberry Group plc reports interim results for its first half ended 30 September 2003. Financial highlights • EBITA* increased 21%, to £66.9m from £55.1m • EBITA margin expanded from 20.1% to 20.8% • Diluted EPS before goodwill amortisation increased 25% to 9.0p • Gross profit margin maintained at 55.6% (vs. 55.8%) • Total revenues increased by 17% (16% underlying**) to £321.3m - Retail sales up 25% (20% underlying) to £107.2m - Wholesale sales increased 14% (13% underlying) to £183.4m - Licensing revenue up 13% (15% underlying) to £30.7m • Interim dividend of 1.5p per Ordinary Share declared (vs. 1.0p) *EBITA represents operating profit before interest, taxation, IPO related items and goodwill amortisation. **Underlying figures are calculated at constant exchange rates and exclude the impact of the July 2002 acquisition of the operations of Burberry's distributor in Korea (the 'Korea acquisition'). Strategic highlights • Launched iconic Brit fragrance to strong consumer response • Opened three Burberry stores, including 8,000 square foot store in Milan, the international fashion capital • Progress in Spain repositioning demonstrated by return to revenue growth • Brand priorities advanced in Japan • Continued to extend reach in underdeveloped markets with planned opening of Moscow store Summary of results Six months ended 30 September 2003 Six months ended 30 September 2002 ------------------------------------ Before IPO IPO related related As reported charges charges As reported £m £m £m £m Turnover 321.3 273.7 - 273.7 Operating profit before goodwill amortisation (EBITA) 66.9 55.1 (22.2) A 32.9 Profit before interest and taxation 63.4 52.2 (22.2) 30.0 Profit after tax 41.9 33.4 (17.4) 16.0 Earnings per share - basic 8.5p 6.7p (3.5p) 3.2p - diluted 8.3p 6.6p (3.4p) 3.2p Earnings per share before goodwill amortisation - basic 9.1p 7.3p (3.5p) 3.8p - diluted 9.0p 7.2p (3.5p) 3.7p Note A: The charge of £22.2m for IPO related items consists of the exceptional charge in connection with the grant of awards under the Restricted Share Plan and associated national insurance liability, together with the cost of gift of shares to employees under the All Employee Share Plan and other IPO costs. John Peace, Chairman of Burberry, commenting on the interim results: 'This strong first half performance in the context of a challenging trading environment highlights the strength of the Burberry brand and the dedication and talents of its management team.' Rose Marie Bravo, Chief Executive, stated, 'Burberry's encouraging performance in the first half was driven by the continued execution of our strategies. It also reflects the diversity of our business across product categories, channels and regions. With these results, Burberry is trading in line with the consensus range of expectations for the financial year.' Management will discuss these results during a presentation to analysts and institutions at 2:00pm today at Merrill Lynch Financial Centre (telephone +44 (0) 20 7404 5959). The presentation will also be broadcast live on the Internet at www.burberryplc.com and can be accessed by telephone at 0845 245 3421 (UK) and +44 1452 542 300 (international). Replay: +44 1452 550 000. Enquiries: Burberry +44 (0) 20 7968 0411 Mike Metcalf COO and CFO Matt McEvoy Strategy and IR Brunswick +44 (0) 20 7404 5959 Susan Gilchrist Sophie Fitton Certain statements made in this announcement are forward looking statements. Such statements are based on current expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from any expected future results in forward looking statements. This announcement does not constitute an invitation to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any Burberry Group plc or GUS plc shares. Past performance is not a guide to future performance and persons needing advice should consult an independent financial adviser. Chief Executive's Review Burberry performed strongly over the first half, both in terms of financial results and strategic progress. The half brought a challenging combination of macroeconomic, political and health related factors. Over the period, the management team successfully responded to the volatile climate while continuing to invest in future growth. In the first half, Burberry increased profit after tax by 25% on 17% revenue growth, and solidly advanced its strategic priorities. Results also benefited from the diversity of the business across product categories, channels and regions. Strategic highlights We continued to drive the business through implementing our key growth strategies by product, region and channel. Products. Burberry enjoyed progress in all major product categories. Menswear achieved the fastest growth as our design and merchandising efforts continued to demonstrate progress in this recovering market segment. Womenswear showed continued strength across its product range. In accessories, we built on our successful contemporary handbag offerings with the new Marrakesh line. With the softness in travel and tourist related sales, which affected the luxury goods industry generally, accessories share of the revenue mix was broadly unchanged, in line with expectations. Burberry Brit, our new fragrance, launched in the US and Europe during early autumn generating strong response from consumers. Its iconic packaging and extensive media campaign brings important branding and awareness benefits to these key markets. Regions. We continued to increase Burberry's geographical market penetration, extending our global reach. Throughout the first half, the US was consistently the best performing market, driven by strong gains in directly operated stores and among wholesale partners. Benefiting from the ongoing repositioning efforts, Burberry's business in Spain achieved a strong first half result. The process of refining distribution, upgrading the product offering and increasing the marketing investment brought renewed revenue growth to this important market. In Japan, Burberry achieved single digit volume gains on top of very strong growth achieved in the comparable period. Effective September 2003, Burberry assumed the direct role of managing and monitoring the non-apparel licensees in Japan, enhancing our ongoing product and distribution initiatives in this market. These efforts are complemented by our apparel licence partner's plan to open a store in the fashionable Omotesando district of Tokyo in spring 2004. Other European and Asian markets generally experienced varying degrees of recovery during the first half. In under developed markets, Burberry continued its expansion. Wholesale partners in China opened six additional points of distribution, bringing the total to 26 in this vibrant economy. A local partner also opened a Burberry store in Kuwait, giving a total of three stores in the Middle East. In addition, we announced the first Burberry store in Russia. The Moscow store will be operated by a local partner and is scheduled to open in early 2004. Chief Executive's Review (continued) Channels. Retail investment continued to lead our growth. Retail sales increased 25% in the first half, driven primarily by new stores. Our first store in Italy, in Milan, was the most significant opening during the period. Located in the centre of this fashion capital's prime shopping area, the 8,000 square foot store presents the complete revitalised Burberry brand for local consumers and the global fashion community. In addition, Burberry opened a store in Tyson's Corner (Virginia) and a second store in Las Vegas. The Group continued its refurbishment program, completing several significant investments designed to expand and upgrade selling space. Wholesale revenues increased by 14% during the half, fuelled by the success of our autumn/winter 2003 collections. This growth was achieved across all major geographic regions. Financial highlights and outlook Burberry achieved strong financial performance during the first half. Turnover increased by 17% to £321.3m. The EBITA* margin expanded from 20.1% to 20.8%, driven by a stable gross margin coupled with expense ratio gains resulting from focussed cost control and expense leverage. As a result, EBITA* increased by 21% to £66.9m and diluted EPS before goodwill amortisation grew 25% to 9.0p. This financial performance is notable in light of the volatile external environment in the half. Looking forward, Burberry is trading in line with the consensus range of expectations for the full financial year. In retail, Burberry remains on schedule to open six stores during the period, resulting in total average selling space expansion of approximately 12% year over year in the second half. Management anticipates that space expansion will be the dominant driver of retail revenue growth during the second half. With respect to the wholesale business, on the basis of the orders received to date, the Group anticipates mid to high single digit sales growth for the spring/summer 2004 season. In licensing activities, Burberry anticipates a lower rate of revenue growth over the balance of the year. In Japan, management expects the benefit of increases in certain royalty rates and revised management arrangements to be partially offset by broadly static volume growth and Yen depreciation. The Group also anticipates continued strong performance from global product licensees. *EBITA represents operating profit before interest, taxation, IPO related items and goodwill amortisation. Financial Review Group results Six months to 30 September 2002 ------------------------------- Six months to Results before IPO 30 September Percentage of IPO related Percentage of related 2003 turnover items turnover items Total £m % £m % £m £m ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Turnover Wholesale 183.4 57.1% 160.9 58.8% - 160.9 Retail 107.2 33.4% 85.6 31.3% - 85.6 Licence 30.7 9.6% 27.2 9.9% - 27.2 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total turnover 321.3 100.0% 273.7 100.0% - 273.7 Cost of sales (142.8) (44.4%) (121.1) (44.2%) - (121.1) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gross profit 178.5 55.6% 152.6 55.8% - 152.6 Net operating expenses (111.6) (34.7%) (97.5) (35.6%) - (97.5) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ EBITA 66.9 20.8% 55.1 20.1% - 55.1 Goodwill amortisation (3.5) (1.1%) (2.9) (1.1%) - (2.9) Employee share ownership plans at IPO - - - - (22.2) (22.2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Profit before interest and tax 63.4 19.7% 52.2 19.1% (22.2) 30.0 Net interest income/(expense) 0.7 0.2% (1.0) (0.4%) - (1.0) Currency loss on GUS loans (pre-flotation) - - - - (2.3) (2.3) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Profit on ordinary activities before taxation 64.1 20.0% 51.2 18.7% (24.5) 26.7 Tax on profit on ordinary activities (22.2) (6.9%) (17.8) (6.5%) 7.1 (10.7) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Profit on ordinary activities after taxation 41.9 13.0% 33.4 12.2% (17.4) 16.0 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Diluted EPS before goodwill amortisation 9.0p - 7.2p - (3.5p) 3.7p Diluted EPS 8.3p - 6.6p - (3.4p) 3.2p ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Diluted weighted average number of Ordinary Shares (millions) 505.3m - 506.3m - 506.3m 506.3m ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Burberry Group turnover is composed of revenue from three channels of distribution: wholesale, retail and licensing operations. Wholesale revenue arises from the sale of men's and women's apparel and accessories to wholesale customers worldwide, principally leading and prestige department stores and speciality retailers. Retail revenue is derived from sales through the Group's directly operated store network. At 30 September 2003, the Group operated 136 retail locations (2002: 124) consisting of 49 Burberry stores (2002: 45), 64 concessions (2002: 59) and 23 outlet stores (2002: 20). Licence revenue consists of royalties receivable from Japanese and product licensing partners. Comparison of the six months ended 30 September 2003 to the six months ended 30 September 2002 Burberry Group has completed two transactions that affect the comparability of results for the six months ended 30 September 2003 relative to the six months ended 30 September 2002. On 1 July 2002, the Group purchased the operations and certain assets of its distributor in Korea, which largely operated as a retail business consisting of 46 concessions and an outlet store at acquisition date (the 'Korea acquisition'). In determining 'underlying' performance, financial results are adjusted to exclude the impact of the Korea acquisition, and to reflect prior financial year exchange rates. On 17 July 2002, Burberry Group completed a reorganisation in connection with its initial public offering and admission to the London Stock Exchange (the 'IPO'). Financial Review (continued) Turnover Total turnover in the first half advanced to £321.3m from £273.7m in the prior period, representing an increase of 17% (17% at constant exchange rates), or 16% on an underlying basis. Retail sales increased by 25% to £107.2m, boosted by the Korea acquisition. On an underlying basis, retail sales increased by 20%. This growth was driven by new stores with a marginal contribution from existing stores. Throughout the period, the US was consistently the best performing market while Burberry's other geographic markets generally experienced varying degrees of recovery during the half. The Group opened three Burberry stores in the period: Milan, Tyson's Corner (Virginia) and a second store in Las Vegas. Wholesale sales increased by 14% to £183.4m during the half, driven by double digit gains for the autumn/winter 2003 season. This increase resulted from solid growth across all regions. Notably, sales growth resumed in Spain, reflecting repositioning efforts in that market. On an underlying basis, wholesale sales increased by 13%. Licensing revenues in the half increased by 13%, 15% underlying, to £30.7m. Licensing revenues from the Japanese market reflected increases in certain royalty rates and single digit volume gains. Licensing revenue also benefited from strong sales gains by global product licensees, including fragrances, eyewear and children's apparel. Operating profit Gross profit as a percentage of turnover was maintained at 55.6% in the first half of 2003/04 relative to 55.8% in the prior period. Gains from pricing, sourcing and channel mix were offset by costs associated with greater seasonal clearance activity in the half. Operating expenses as a percentage of turnover were reduced to 34.7% from 35.6% in the previous period. The expense ratio reduction is primarily a function of focussed cost control as well as the leveraging of fixed expenses, while the absolute increase in the Group's expenses reflects growth of the business, particularly the retail expansion and infrastructure investment. Goodwill amortisation increased to £3.5m from £2.9m as the result of a full six months of amortisation expense associated with the Korea acquisition relative to a partial period in the previous year and exchange rate movements. As a result of these factors, EBITA increased by 21% to £66.9m, or 20.8% of turnover from 20.1% in the comparative period. Profit before interest and tax increased 21% to £63.4m, or 19.7% of turnover. Financial Review (continued) Net interest expense Net interest income was £0.7m in the six months to September 2003 compared to net expense of £1.0m in the prior period. The improvement reflects larger cash balances in the current period and the elimination of borrowings during the second half of the 2002/03 financial year. IPO related charges In connection with the initial public offering, the Group incurred a £22.2m exceptional charge in the six months to September 2002 largely relating to its employee share ownership plans. As no further awards will be made under these plans, the consolidated profit and loss account will not be affected in future periods. During the six months to 30 September 2002, the Group also incurred a £2.3m foreign exchange loss on borrowings held on behalf of the GUS group; these borrowings were eliminated as part of the reorganisation prior to the flotation. Profit before taxation As a result of the above factors, Burberry reported profit before taxation of £64.1m in the six months to 30 September 2003 compared to £51.2m (excluding IPO related charges) in the prior period. Profit after taxation Burberry anticipates a 33% tax rate on profit before goodwill amortisation for the full 2003/04 financial year. On this basis, the Group recorded a £22.2m tax charge for the first half and reported profit after tax of £41.9m for the six months ended 30 September 2003, a 25% increase over the £33.4m (excluding IPO related charges) reported in the prior period. Diluted earnings per share before goodwill amortisation increased 25% to 9.0p in the half compared to 7.2p (excluding IPO related charges) in the prior period. In the six months to September 2003, the Group had 495.8m (2002: 498.2m) and 505.3m (2002: 506.3m) Ordinary Shares in issue on average for the purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share, respectively. An average of 4.2m Ordinary Shares held by the Group's Employee Share Ownership Trusts are excluded for the purposes of the basic and diluted earnings per share calculations. Liquidity and Capital Resources Historically, Burberry's principal uses of funds have been to support acquisitions, capital expenditures and working capital growth in connection with the expansion of its business. Principal sources of funds have been cash flow from operations and financing from the GUS group. Following its IPO in July 2002, the Group expects to finance operations and capital expenditures with cash generated from operating activities and, if necessary, the use of its £75m credit facility. The table below sets out the principal components of cash flow for the six month periods ended 30 September 2003 and 30 September 2002 and net funds at the period end: Six months to Six months to 30 September 30 September 2003 2002 £m £m ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Operating profit before interest, taxation, goodwill amortisation and IPO related items 66.9 55.1 Depreciation and related charges 10.4 6.9 Increase in stocks (9.0) (2.0) Increase in debtors (30.1) (25.3) Increase in creditors 4.8 5.5 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net cash inflow from operating activities 43.0 40.2 Returns on investments and servicing of finance 0.7 (0.6) Taxation paid (18.3) (10.7) Net purchases of fixed assets (14.6) (30.6) Purchase of own shares (7.0) (3.1) Acquisition of Korean business - (20.5) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net cash inflow/(outflow) before IPO related and financing activities 3.8 (25.3) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net funds at end of period 73.5 12.3 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net cash flow from operating activities increased to £43.0m in the half year ended 30 September 2003 from £40.2m in the comparative period. Stocks grew by £9.0m; the moderate increase relative to sales is primarily a result of timely shipping performance to wholesale customers and improved stock management. The £30.1m increase in debtors reflects seasonal growth of trade receivables. Net cash outflow from purchases of fixed assets of £14.6m largely reflects investment in Burberry Group's retail operations. During the six months ended 30 September 2003 Burberry invested £7.0m in its own shares as an economic hedge against obligations under the Group's employee share ownership plans. Net funds of £73.5m at 30 September 2003 comprise £65.5m cash and short term deposits and £8.0m of cash deposited with a GUS plc subsidiary, which was deposited on standard commercial terms. An interim dividend of 1.5p per share (2002: 1.0p), £7.4m in total, will be payable on 4 February 2004. Group profit and loss accounts Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 Note £m £m £m ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Turnover 2 321.3 273.7 593.6 Cost of sales (142.8) (121.1) (261.3) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gross profit 178.5 152.6 332.3 Net operating expenses (115.1) (122.6) (244.0) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating profit 63.4 30.0 88.3 Operating profit before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items: 66.9 55.1 116.7 - goodwill amortisation (3.5) (2.9) (6.4) - exceptional charges relating to IPO employee share plans 3 - (22.2) (22.0) Interest and similar income 0.8 1.1 1.8 Interest expense (0.1) (2.1) (2.7) Foreign currency loss on loans with GUS group (pre-flotation) - (2.3) (2.3) Interest expense and similar charges (0.1) (4.4) (5.0) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Profit on ordinary activities before taxation 2 64.1 26.7 85.1 Tax on profit on ordinary activities* 4 (22.2) (10.7) (32.9) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Profit on ordinary activities after taxation 41.9 16.0 52.2 Dividend - interim 6 (7.4) (5.0) (5.0) Dividend - final 6 - - (10.0) Dividend - to GUS group (pre-flotation) 6 - (219.0) (219.0) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Retained profit/(loss) for the period 34.5 (208.0) (181.8) ======================================================================================== Pence per share ----------------- Earnings (note 5) - basic 8.5p 3.2p 10.5p - diluted 8.3p 3.2p 10.3p Earnings before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items - basic 9.1p 7.0p 14.9p - diluted 9.0p 6.9p 14.6p Dividends (note 6) Dividend per share - interim 1.5p 1.0p 1.0p Dividend per share - final - - 2.0p *Tax on profit on ordinary activities includes tax credits on goodwill amortisation and exceptional items of £0.1m in the six months ended 30 September 2003 (30 September 2002: £6.4m; 31 March 2003: £6.5m): see note 3. Statement of total recognised gains and losses Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Retained profit/(loss) for the 34.5 (208.0) (181.8) period Currency translation differences (1.5) (14.5) 1.1 Tax impact of currency translation differences (0.1) - (0.4) Impact of currency translation differences (1.6) (14.5) 0.7 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total recognised gains and losses for 32.9 (222.5) (181.1) the period -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reconciliation of movement in Shareholders' Funds Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Profit on ordinary activities after taxation 41.9 16.0 52.2 Dividend - interim (7.4) (5.0) (5.0) Dividend - final - - (10.0) Dividend - to GUS group (pre-flotation) - (219.0) (219.0) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Retained profit/(loss) for the period 34.5 (208.0) (181.8) Currency translation differences (1.6) (14.5) 0.7 Pre-flotation Issue of preference share capital - 0.8 0.8 Issue of Ordinary Share capital - 486.7 486.7 Deemed distribution arising on reorganisation - (704.1) (704.1) Capital reserve arising on reorganisation - 6.6 6.6 On and post-flotation Issue of Ordinary Share capital 0.3 250.5 250.5 Waiver of GUS group balances - 37.6 37.6 Capital reserve arising on Restricted Share Plan ('RSP') at IPO - 18.6 18.5 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net addition to Shareholders' Funds 33.2 (125.8) (84.5) Opening Shareholders' Funds (2002: GUS investment in Burberry Group) 390.0 474.5 474.5 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Closing Shareholders' Funds 423.2 348.7 390.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Group balance sheets As at As at As at 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 Note £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fixed assets Intangible assets 121.6 121.1 123.7 Tangible fixed assets 163.7 144.4 161.4 Investments 10.4 3.2 3.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 295.7 268.7 288.5 Current assets Stock 91.9 86.1 83.8 Debtors 8 150.2 131.0 122.0 Cash and short term deposits* 73.6 40.6 86.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 315.7 257.7 292.4 Creditors - amounts falling due within one year 9 (149.6) (123.5) (151.1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net current assets 166.1 134.2 141.3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total assets less current liabilities 461.8 402.9 429.8 Creditors - amounts falling due after more than one year 10 (34.0) (53.4) (35.2) Provisions for liabilities and charges (4.6) (0.8) (4.6) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net assets 423.2 348.7 390.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Called up share capital 1.1 1.1 1.1 Share premium account 122.5 122.2 122.2 Revaluation reserve 24.8 24.7 25.2 Capital reserve 46.0 46.9 47.1 Other reserve 11 704.1 704.1 704.1 Profit and loss account 11 (475.3) (550.3) (509.7) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Equity Shareholders' Funds 422.4 347.9 389.2 Non-equity Shareholders' Funds 0.8 0.8 0.8 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Shareholders' Funds 423.2 348.7 390.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Cash and short term deposits includes £8.0m as at 30 September 2003 (2002: £nil) deposited with GUS group on standard commercial terms. These deposits were repaid in cash by 10 October 2003. Group cash flow statements Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2003 2002 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash inflow from operating activities 43.0 40.2 165.0 Returns on investments and servicing of finance Interest received 0.8 0.2 0.8 Interest paid (0.1) (0.8) (1.4) Dividends received from investment - - 0.1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash inflow/(outflow) from returns on investments and servicing of finance 0.7 (0.6) (0.5) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Taxation paid (18.3) (10.7) (30.6) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Capital expenditure and financial investment Purchase of tangible and intangible fixed assets (14.6) (30.7) (55.7) Sale of tangible fixed assets - 0.1 0.2 Purchase of own shares (7.0) (3.1) (4.5) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash outflow from capital expenditure and financial investment (21.6) (33.7) (60.0) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquisitions Deferred consideration for purchase of businesses - - (2.5) Purchase of businesses - (20.5) (24.3) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash outflow from acquisitions - (20.5) (26.8) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash inflow/(outflow) before dividends, IPO related and financing activities 3.8 (25.3) 47.1 Dividends Equity dividends paid (including for period to 30 September 2002 £219m to GUS group pre-flotation) (9.9) (219.0) (224.0) Deemed distribution arising on reorganisation (net of capital reserve) - (697.5) (697.5) Net cash outflow before management of liquid resources and financing (6.1) (941.8) (874.4) Management of liquid resources Increase in short term deposits (1.4) (6.1) (47.3) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Financing Issue of Ordinary Share capital 0.3 249.5 249.5 Issue of Ordinary Shares to GUS group (pre-flotation) - 486.7 486.7 Issue of preference shares to GUS group (pre-flotation) - 0.8 0.8 Increase/(decrease) in external borrowings - 21.2 (7.9) Funds received on GUS group balances (pre-flotation) - 446.1 446.1 Settlement of GUS group balances (on flotation) - (250.5) (250.5) Decrease in net balances due from GUS group - 195.6 195.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash inflow from financing 0.3 953.8 924.7 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Decrease)/increase in cash during the period (7.2) 5.9 3.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Six months to Six months to Year to Reconciliation of operating profit 30 September 30 September 31 March to net cash inflow from operating 2003 2002 2003 activities £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating activities Operating profit after goodwill amortisation and exceptional items 63.4 30.0 88.3 Exceptional items - 22.2 22.0 Goodwill amortisation 3.5 2.9 6.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating profit before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items 66.9 55.1 116.7 Depreciation, impairment and trademark amortisation charges 10.4 6.9 19.0 Loss on disposal of fixed assets and - - 1.5 similar non-cash charges (Increase)/decrease in stocks (9.0) (2.0) 5.2 Increase in debtors (30.1) (25.3) (2.4) Increase in creditors 4.8 5.5 25.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash inflow from operating activities 43.0 40.2 165.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reconciliation of net cash flow to Six months to Six months to Year to movement in net funds 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Decrease)/increase in cash (7.2) 5.9 3.0 Cash (inflow)/outflow from movement in external borrowings - (21.2) 7.9 Cash outflow from movement in liquid resources 1.4 6.1 47.3 Cash inflow arising from GUS group balances prior to flotation - (195.6) (195.6) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movement in net funds resulting from cash flows (5.8) (204.8) (137.4) Non-cash movements on GUS group balances prior to flotation - (24.8) (24.8) - tax and interest - waiver of balances by GUS group - 37.6 37.6 Exchange movements (0.3) (9.3) (9.4) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movement in net funds (6.1) (201.3) (134.0) Net funds at beginning of period 79.6 213.6 213.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net funds at end of period 73.5 12.3 79.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As at As at As at 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 Analysis of net funds £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash and short term deposits* 73.6 40.6 86.6 Unsecured bank loans and overdrafts (0.1) (0.3) (7.0) Secured bank loans due within one year - (9.8) - Debt due after more than one year - (18.2) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net funds at end of period 73.5 12.3 79.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Cash and short term deposits includes £8.0m as at 30 September 2003 (2002: £nil) deposited with GUS group on standard commercial terms. These deposits were repaid in cash by 10 October 2003. Notes to the interim financial statements 1. Basis of preparation The interim report comprises the unaudited results for the six months ended 30 September 2003 and 30 September 2002 and the audited results for the year ended 31 March 2003. The interim financial statements are not audited and do not constitute statutory accounts. These financial statements have been formally reviewed by the Group's auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, and their report is set out on page 22. The financial information contained in this interim report does not constitute statutory accounts within the meaning of section 240 of the Companies Act 1985. The information at 31 March 2003 has been extracted from the statutory accounts for the year ended 31 March 2003, which were reported on by the auditors without qualification or statement under section 237(2) or (3) of the Companies Act 1985 and have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. Prior to flotation, on 17 July 2002, the net assets of Burberry Group were represented by the cumulative investment of GUS group in Burberry Group (shown as 'GUS investment in Burberry Group'). All non-trading transactions between Burberry Group and GUS group were reflected as movements in 'GUS investment in Burberry Group', which was comprised of: a) Assets and liabilities not forming part of Burberry Group after flotation. These assets and liabilities were transferred on or before flotation to GUS group companies in part settlement of the loans outstanding between GUS group and Burberry Group; b) Loans due to and from GUS group companies. These amounts were settled fully either as part of the Burberry Group reorganisation with shares issued to GUS group and loan repayments, or by the waiver of such loans by GUS group; and c) Share capital and reserves of Burberry Group companies. The balances in (a) and (b) above are referred to as 'GUS group balances' in the 'Reconciliation of movement in Shareholders' Funds', the 'Group cash flow statements' and the 'Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net funds'. Notes to the interim financial statements (continued) 2. Segmental analysis (i) Geographical analysis - turnover by destination Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Europe 172.6 148.5 302.7 North America 71.7 58.4 140.5 Asia Pacific 75.1 64.4 147.0 Other 1.9 2.4 3.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total 321.3 273.7 593.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (ii) Analysis by class of business (a) Turnover - analysis by class of business Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wholesale 183.4 160.9 306.9 Retail 107.2 85.6 228.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wholesale and Retail 290.6 246.5 535.3 Licence 30.7 27.2 58.3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total 321.3 273.7 593.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An analysis of turnover by product category is shown below: Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Womenswear 107.0 91.5 197.9 Menswear 94.3 77.2 162.8 Accessories 87.3 75.5 169.5 Other 2.0 2.3 5.1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wholesale and Retail 290.6 246.5 535.3 Licence 30.7 27.2 58.3 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total 321.3 273.7 593.6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Number of directly operated stores, concessions and outlets open at period end 136 124 132 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Notes to the interim financial statements (continued) 2. Segmental analysis (continued) (b) Profit before taxation - analysis by class of business Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wholesale and Retail 40.2 31.4 64.3 Licence 26.7 23.7 52.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 66.9 55.1 116.7 Net interest income/(expense) 0.7 (1.0) (0.9) Foreign currency loss on loans with GUS group (pre-flotation) - (2.3) (2.3) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Profit before goodwill amortisation, exceptional items and taxation 67.6 51.8 113.5 Goodwill amortisation - Wholesale and Retail (3.5) (2.9) (6.4) Exceptional items - Wholesale and Retail - (17.3) (18.3) Exceptional items - Licence - (4.9) (3.7) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Profit before taxation 64.1 26.7 85.1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The results above are stated after the allocation of costs of a group wide nature. 3. Exceptional items Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Granting of awards under the Senior Executive Restricted Share Plan ('the RSP') - 18.6 18.5 Employers' national insurance liability arising on the RSP awards - 2.2 2.1 Shares gifted to employees under the All Employee Share Plan - 1.0 1.0 Other costs relating to the IPO - 0.4 0.4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total - 22.2 22.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The associated tax credit relating to these exceptional items was £6.4m in the six months to 30 September 2002 and £6.3m in the year to 31 March 2003. Awards were made under the RSP to the executive directors and other senior management of Burberry Group in respect of services prior to flotation. No previous awards had been made, and no further awards will be made, under the RSP. Notes to the interim financial statements (continued) 4. Taxation The effective rate of tax, before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items, is based on the estimated tax charge for the full year at a rate of 33.0% (2002: 33.0%). The actual effective rate of tax for the year ended 31 March 2003 on this basis was 34.7%. The tax charge in the six months to 30 September 2003 is treated as being wholly current, with no deferred element. Burberry Group has commenced a review with the Competent Authorities with regards to resolving transfer pricing of internal sales between the UK and USA. As part of the agreements with GUS, certain tax liabilities which arise and relate to matters prior to 31 March 2002 will be met by GUS. From 1 April 2002 any liability will be due by Burberry Group. No provision has been made for additional taxation arising from these proceedings as none is anticipated overall. 5. Earnings per share The calculation of basic earnings per share is based on profit after taxation divided by the weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue during the period. Basic earnings per share before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items is disclosed to indicate the underlying profitability of the Group. The calculation of diluted earnings per share reflects the prospective dilutive effect of the Restricted Share Plan ('RSP') and Share Option Schemes. Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Profit on ordinary activities after taxation, but before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items 45.3 34.7 74.1 Effect of goodwill amortisation (net of attributable taxation) (3.4) (2.9) (6.2) Effect of exceptional items (net of attributable taxation) - (15.8) (15.7) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Profit on ordinary activities after taxation 41.9 16.0 52.2 ================================================================================ The weighted average number of Ordinary Shares at 30 September 2003 represents the weighted average number of Burberry Group plc Ordinary Shares throughout the period, excluding Ordinary Shares held in Burberry Group's Employee Share Ownership Trusts ('ESOTs'). The weighted average number of Ordinary Shares for the periods ending 30 September 2002 and 31 March 2003 represent the number of Burberry Group plc Ordinary Shares in issue at flotation excluding Ordinary Shares held in Burberry Group's ESOTs. Diluted earnings per share for the relevant financial period is based on the weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue at the beginning of the period (or, for the periods ended 31 March 2003 and 30 September 2002, at flotation) through to period end (excluding any Ordinary Shares held in Burberry Group's ESOTs). In addition, account is taken of any awards made under the RSP and Share Option Schemes, which will have a dilutive effect when exercised (full vesting of all outstanding awards is assumed). Notes to the interim financial statements (continued) 5. Earnings per share (continued) Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 Millions Millions Millions -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue during the period 495.8 498.2 498.1 Dilutive effect of the RSP and Share Option Schemes 9.5 8.1 8.1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Diluted weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue during the period 505.3 506.3 506.2 ================================================================================ Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 Basic earnings per share Pence Pence Pence -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Basic earnings per share before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items 9.1 7.0 14.9 Effect of goodwill amortisation (0.6) (0.6) (1.2) Effect of exceptional items - (3.2) (3.2) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Basic earnings per share 8.5 3.2 10.5 ================================================================================ Six months to Six months to Year to 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 Diluted earnings per share Pence Pence Pence -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Diluted earnings per share before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items 9.0 6.9 14.6 Effect of goodwill amortisation (0.7) (0.6) (1.2) Effect of exceptional items - (3.1) (3.1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Diluted earnings per share 8.3 3.2 10.3 ================================================================================ 6. Dividend The interim dividend of 1.5p (2002: 1.0p) per share will be paid on 4 February 2004 to Shareholders on the Register at the close of business on 23 January 2004. Notes to the interim financial statements (continued) 7. Foreign currency Assets and liabilities of overseas undertakings are translated into Sterling at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date and the profit and loss account is translated into Sterling at average rates of exchange. The principal exchange rates used were as follows: Average Closing ------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ Six months to Six months to Year to As at As at As at 30 September 30 September 31 March 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 2003 2002 2003 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Euro 1.43 1.59 1.55 1.43 1.59 1.45 US 1.62 1.51 1.55 1.66 1.57 1.58 dollar Hong Kong 12.61 11.77 12.05 12.89 12.23 12.33 dollar Korean 1,935 1,855 1,880 1,913 1,919 1,981 won ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The average exchange rate achieved by Burberry Group on its Yen royalty income, taking into account its use of Yen forward sale contracts on a monthly basis approximately 12 months in advance of royalty receipts, was Yen 179.88: £1 in the six months to 30 September 2003 (2002: Yen 172.48: £1); year to 31 March 2003 Yen 174.20: £1. 8. Debtors As at As at As at 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Amounts falling due within one year Trade debtors 112.2 99.5 86.1 Other debtors* 3.0 4.2 1.1 Prepayments and accrued income 14.5 14.6 11.3 Corporation tax 0.2 - 3.4 Trading balances owed by GUS group 0.1 2.3 0.2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 130.0 120.6 102.1 Amounts falling due after more than one year Deferred tax assets 18.3 10.4 18.3 Corporation tax 0.8 - 0.8 Other debtors 1.1 - 0.8 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total 150.2 131.0 122.0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- *Other debtors as at 30 September 2002 previously reported as £7.3m have been adjusted to exclude £3.1m of investment in own shares; this amount is reported as part of fixed asset investments. The deferred tax assets at 30 September 2003 and 2002 reflect the asset recorded at the immediately preceding 31 March, adjusted for any deferred tax arising on acquisitions occurring in the relevant six month period and foreign currency movements. Notes to the interim financial statements (continued) 9. Creditors - amounts falling due within one year As at As at As at 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Secured: Bank loans - 9.8 - Unsecured: Overdrafts 0.1 0.3 7.0 Trade creditors 24.1 22.7 26.9 Dividend payable - GUS group 5.8 3.9 7.8 Dividend payable - other Shareholders 1.6 1.1 2.2 Trading balances owed to GUS group companies 7.0 0.9 5.1 Corporation tax (UK and overseas) 22.8 10.7 22.1 Other taxes and social security costs 5.4 4.3 4.6 Other creditors 17.8 18.8 18.4 Accruals and deferred income 62.5 48.5 54.5 Deferred consideration for acquisitions 2.5 2.5 2.5 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total 149.6 123.5 151.1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10. Creditors - amounts falling due after more than one year As at As at As at 30 September 30 September 31 March 2003 2002 2003 £m £m £m -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unsecured: Bank loans - 18.2 - Other creditors, accruals and deferred income 3.5 5.1 6.0 Deferred consideration for acquisitions 30.5 30.1 29.2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total 34.0 53.4 35.2 ================================================================================ 11. Reserves The other reserve of £704.1m at 30 September 2003 (2002: £704.1m) represents the amounts transferred from the share premium account within Burberry Group plc as a result of the capital reduction carried out immediately prior to flotation. This reserve will be classified as distributable when the creditors of Burberry Group plc, as at the date of the capital reduction, have been settled fully. The negative profit and loss account balance arising on consolidation resulted from the reorganisation of Burberry Group immediately prior to flotation. This negative balance will be eliminated when the other reserve of £704.1m is classified as distributable. Dividend distributions are dependent on Burberry Group plc's ('the Company') accumulated profit and loss account. As at 30 September 2003 the profit and loss account of the Company was £141.6m (2002: £133.6m). Notes to the interim financial statements (continued) 12. Contingent liabilities Since 31 March 2003 the following changes to contingent liabilities have occurred: The claim for £2.4m received from a number of the vendors of the Asian distribution businesses acquired on 31 December 2001 has been settled in October 2003. The settlement was fully provided for as at 30 September 2003. The Group has received a claim from the liquidator of Creation Cent Mille SA ('CCM') a former licensee of Burberry Group, seeking to set aside the termination of the licence agreement between Burberry Limited and CCM. Burberry Group believes this claim is without merit and intends to vigorously defend itself. The Group has been named as one of approximately 100 defendants in a class action in California, USA, which alleges that employees' job application processes violated the Californian Labor Code. The defendants have collectively filed a motion to dismiss this action and a ruling is pending. Other contingent liabilities reported at 31 March 2003 remain unchanged and were: Under the GUS group UK tax payment arrangements, Burberry Group is and will remain jointly and severally liable for any GUS liability attributable to the period of Burberry Group's membership of this payment scheme. Burberry Group's membership of this scheme was terminated with effect from 31 March 2002. Burberry (Spain) S.A. is liable for certain salary and social security contributions left unpaid by its sole contractors where the amounts are attributable to the period in which sub-contracting activity is undertaken on behalf of Burberry (Spain) S.A. It is not feasible to estimate the amount of contingent liability, but such expense has been minimal in prior years. In the year ended 31 March 2002, Burberry Group received an invoice in respect of construction works at the Bond Street site from its former lessor. The Burberry Group has notified the other party that it is seeking recovery of certain costs incurred because of the late delivery of the store structure. The Burberry Group intends to defend its position. Independent review report to Burberry Group plc Introduction We have been instructed by Burberry Group plc to review the financial information of Burberry Group plc and its subsidiaries ('the Group') which comprises the Group profit and loss accounts, the statement of total recognised gains and losses, the reconciliation of movement in Shareholders' Funds, the Group balance sheets, the Group cash flow statements and the notes to the interim financial statements. We have read the other information contained in the interim report and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the financial information. Directors' responsibilities The interim report, including the financial information contained therein, is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the interim report in accordance with the Listing Rules of the Financial Services Authority which require that the accounting policies and presentation applied to the interim figures should be consistent with those applied in preparing the preceding annual accounts except where any changes, and the reasons for them, are disclosed. Review work performed We conducted our review in accordance with guidance contained in Bulletin 1999/4 issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom. A review consists principally of making enquiries of Group management and applying analytical procedures to the financial information and underlying financial data and, based thereon, assessing whether the accounting policies and presentation have been consistently applied unless otherwise disclosed. A review excludes audit procedures such as tests of controls and verification of assets, liabilities and transactions. It is substantially less in scope than an audit performed in accordance with United Kingdom Auditing Standards and therefore provides a lower level of assurance than an audit. Accordingly we do not express an audit opinion on the financial information. This report, including the conclusion, has been prepared for and only for Burberry Group plc for the purpose of the Listing Rules of the Financial Services Authority and for no other purpose. We do not, in producing this report, accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing. Review conclusion On the basis of our review we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the financial information as presented for the six months ended 30 September 2003. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Chartered Accountants London 18 November 2003 Shareholder information Registrar Enquiries concerning holdings of the Company's shares and notification of the holder's change of address should be referred to Lloyds TSB Registrars, The Causeway, Worthing, West Sussex, BN99 6DA, telephone: 0870 600 3970. In addition, Lloyds TSB Registrars offer a range of shareholder information online at www.shareview.co.uk. A text phone facility for those with hearing difficulties is available by calling 0870 600 3950. Share price information The latest Burberry Group plc share price is available on Ceefax and also on the Financial Times Cityline Service on 0906 843 2727 (calls charged at 60p per minute). Internet A full range of investor relations information on Burberry Group plc, including latest share price and dividend history, is available at www.burberry.com. Financial calendar for the year ending 31 March 2004 Third quarter trading update 13 January 2004 Interim dividend record date 23 January 2004 Interim dividend to be paid 4 February 2004 Second half trading update 14 April 2004 Preliminary announcement of results for the year to 31 March May 2004 2004 Annual General Meeting July 2004 Registered office Burberry Group plc 18-22 Haymarket London SW1Y 4DQ Telephone: 020 7968 0000 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
Investor Meets Company
UK 100